I hope this message finds you all well. It seems like British politics has been turned upside down since I was last in touch with you but you will be unsurprised to learn that even in post-Brexit Britain misguided attempts to restrict every day cultural activities in public spaces continue apace. Durham BID and Durham County Council have launched 'X-factor style' busking auditions with council officials, BID officers and the police acting as judges for potential buskers, turning away those they deem not to be good enough and granting restrictive 6 month licenses to the rest. This coercive and ill-judged scheme will do immense damage to Durham's vibrant and welcoming street culture scene and is attack on the busking tradition of spontaneous and democratic access to public space We have set up a petition asking the BID and the council to abandon their plans and to think again. As someone who has supported our campaigns in the past, I would be very grateful if you would consider giving it your support, Kind regards, Jonny Walker Founding Director Keep Streets Live Campaign http://keepstreetslive.com